Mount Beckworth Scenic Reserve, Victoria

Mount Beckworth Scenic Reserve, located approximately 110 km northwest of Melbourne near the town of Clunes, is a distinctive granite outcrop rising above the surrounding plains. The reserve is best known for its exposed rock formations, scattered eucalypts, and the iconic “Lollipop Tree”, a lone pine planted in 1918 by students from Glendaruel Primary School.

A network of informal walking tracks leads to the summit, where hikers are rewarded with expansive views across central Victoria. Navigation can be less defined in places due to the rocky terrain, so care is required when route finding, particularly off the main footpads.

The reserve includes three free campgrounds — Cork Oaks, Manna Gums, and The Dam. Basic facilities such as picnic tables and barbecues are available, with toilets located at The Dam campground. Conditions are unsealed and can vary depending on weather.

Mount Beckworth supports a surprisingly diverse ecosystem. More than 250 plant species have been recorded, including a range of native orchids. The remnant eucalypts and native vegetation play an important role in stabilising the shallow granite soils and supporting local biodiversity.

Wildlife is present but not always obvious. Birdlife is abundant, including honeyeaters, parrots, and birds of prey. Kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, possums, gliders, and koalas also occur in the reserve, though sightings are less frequent.

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